Before I start jotting down my observations, I have to prepare this mini notepad of mine where I collect most of my ideas and outlines for my written papers. I was supposed to start writing on it, a small remark or perhaps a title, until you asked Sir Carson if you can repeat your speech from the beginning. I instantly wrote on my notepad that ‘it’s okay to be nervous’, ‘loosen more’, and things like that. The truth is, I was genuinely surprised after the second picking up because suddenly you seem so relaxed, like you have forgotten that you started the speech on a wrong hook. Your confidence erased my doubts, and that signals a fairly good job.
I can relate much to your discussed persuasive topic because I have a class that discusses about the dangers of installing a nuclear power plant in our country. Your topic helped me balance out the pros and cons from what I’ve learned from my STS1 class. Your explanation of the major points against the banning of nuclear power plants in our country clarified my misconceptions and biases. It helped me a lot on deciding what stand I should choose, although I think it would have been better if the points were strong and elaborated enough to the point where I would have no choice but to unquestionably side with your argument.
Also, starting your speech with a striking quotation is an excellent idea although I think it would have been more striking if the quotation is directly related to the agenda of your speech. It took me quite long to figure out to connect the dots from your quotation to the body. Mentioning anecdotes such as your experience with insufficient power supplies in your hometown is also a great strategy in helping us get more in touch with your topic. Your premises were also presented well that I clearly and quickly understood which parts of your speech your premises are because I was easily able to recognize them as your supporting evidences. Like the one where you mentioned that nuclear power plants provide consistent energy, serve as a base, and are actually proven safe. I can also remember them quite well not only because I have jotted them down in my notepad, but also these points were summarized and reiterated well enough at the end of the speech. Overall, the flow of your speech is smooth. Although it might need a few tweaks and twitches, as long as the points were clearly emphasized, I think it could suffice.
Being assertive is one of my disliked traits, although it is considered by many as a positive trait. When it comes to effective analyzing and criticizing, I know that it is fundamental to be objective. Sometimes, I really can’t help but just let my emotions and personal preferences play through my judgment. When you started speaking, I was trying to figure out what made me listen intently and directly focus my attention. Maybe one of the reasons why is because I have to write a critique about it, but I think that’s not it. Honestly, I think it is in your style of speaking. The way you speak in a way to persuade us was really crisp and soothing, and that alone made me want to listen more. In terms of facial expressions and body movements, minimal is okay but I recommend maximizing the opportunity to execute more. In persuading, I think animated and loud body gestures would influence me more rather than being closed and mute such as the usual tucking of hand in the pocket of your slacks. Also, dressing appropriately and good posture are also a plus in the delivery of your speech.
Overall, it was a job well done. The content of your speech is relevant to the situation of our country. The structure was smooth and ideas are well organized. The delivery of the enhanced the speech more. Keep up the good job, and despite the nerve wracking opening, you’d actually managed to pull the whole speech off. :)
